Kids Coop Theatre to present 'Disney's Aladdin Jr.'

By APRIL GUILMETUnion Leader Correspondent

Ben Villnave as Aladdin rehearses a scene with "The Genie," played by Derry's Sarah Rodgers, and "Princess Jasmine," played by Hudson's Marielle Choiniere. The Kids Coop production of "Disney's Aladdin Jr." will premiere in Derry next month. (COURTESY)

LONDONDERRY - Theatre lovers of all ages are invited to hop on a magic carpet ride inside the Adams Memorial Opera House in Derry next month as the Londonderry-based Kids Coop Theatre takes to the stage in their latest production, "Disney's Aladdin Jr."

Based on the popular 1992 animated film, the stage adaptation promises to be filled with magic, mayhem and flying carpet rides, with audiences treated to such familiar tunes as "A Whole New World" and "Friend Like Me."

Kids Coop president Pam Rodgers said the upcoming show is a unique twist for the children's theatre troupe since some of the company's longtime teenage performers have been given the chance to help oversee the creative process.

As "young directors," the teens are working hand-in-hand with adult mentors, Rodgers said.

"Our young directors work incredibly hard and put in many long hours to make these shows a great experience for both the cast and the audience," Rodgers added.

Performances of "Disney's Aladdin Jr." are scheduled for March 8 at 7 p.m. and March 9 at 1 and 7 p.m. at the Adams Memorial Opera House, 29 West Broadway, Derry. All tickets are $10 and are available at www.kids-coop-theatre.org.